Some scientists and physicians speculate that several different physical processes could be occurring. » MORE: Easy as 1-2-3, make an online will in minutes.
No one knows for certain what causes rallying before death, but there are some theories about this phenomenon. If this occurs, it can be shocking to families who don’t expect it, creating false hope. The other term for rallying is “terminal lucidity.” They might be able to converse coherently with friends and family. Then, suddenly your loved one becomes more alert and energetic than they have been in days. Family may be at the bedside for hours, not knowing when the time of death will arrive. As a person’s body shuts down they no longer want food or water. When someone is dying, they typically become non-responsive, weak, and in a semi-conscious state towards the very end of life.
If you are fortunate to be with your loved one when they rally, take full advantage of the opportunity to be present with them one last time. Understanding more about this phenomenon will help you accept it for what it is and appreciate the mystery of why it happens. There is no way to know how many people rally before death, but it happens often enough that discussions on why, how, and when it occurs are ongoing. The advantage to knowing and understanding these stages is that you can be prepared and ready for the last moments. We know that the dying process and what happens when you die has several stages, although not everyone goes through each step.
Researchers are aware of the end of life rally or “last hurrah”, and studies have shown that about 84 percent of people who experience this sudden burst of activity and lucidity in their final days die within a week. With more education about end-of-life, families can be prepared for a rally and understand what is happening so they can cherish the moment, knowing it will only be temporary. McFadden explains in an interview with Newsweek that about a third of hospice patients rally before death – suddenly acting like their old selves, eating, talking, even sometimes joking around or getting up and walking. This phenomenon can surprise and confuse families who may believe their loved one is getting better, only to be crushed when they pass on a few days later. Hospice workers frequently see dying patients “rally” for a short period of time before their death. McFadden hopes that by normalizing discussions about death, more families will be prepared for what may come and be spared shock and devastation. But as those who have experienced the loss of a close relative or beloved friend, death does not always step softly and there may be unexpected ups and downs on the journey. What many may not expect is to find comfort on TikTok.Īccording to a recent Newsweek article, hospice nurse Julie McFadden has started sharing her years of experience and knowledge about the final days of life on TikTok to help ease fear and raise awareness about the end of life. When people imagine the end of life for themselves or a loved one, it is often hoped that death will come gently with family nearby and a sense of peace.